DepEd Partakes 2016 Shake Drill
The DepEd Regional Office along with the 14 Schools Division Offices, including Public and Private Schools in Region 1 participated in the 2nd Quarter Simultaneous National Earthquake Drill on June 22, 2016.
At exactly 9:00 in the morning, sirens served as the signal for the start of the earthquake drill for all the participating agencies, schools, and stakeholders nationwide.
“Drop, Cover and Hold.” This procedure was properly done by the DepEd Region 1 employees as observed by the evaluators from the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 1.
Ms. Mara Angelic Balcita, Chapter Project Officer of PRC rated DepEd’s performance as 8 out of 10 and Mr. Michael John C. Maquiling, Science Research Specialist II of DOST Region 1 gave 7.5 out of 10 as his rating. They also discussed the things that need to be observed properly during earthquake drills.
Mr. Jose Ritchie Perez, DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) Focal Person gave an orientation on Earthquake Intensities and Impacts. Mr. Perez also reminded that the signages for evacuation routes must be posted in conspicuous area to ensure safety during disasters.
In terms of the classroom constructions, Mr. Perez clarified that DepEd Engineers are closely coordinating with the DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) for inspection of the site before the construction.
DepEd, as member of the NDRRMC make certain that contingency plans for the schools are ready for the safety and security of the learners nationwide.